Pakistan is observing the 149th birth anniversary of renowned philosopher, poet of the East and visionary Allama Muhammad Iqbal today, November 9. A dignified guard-changing ceremony was also held at his mausoleum in Lahore.
Allama Muhammad Iqbal, who envisioned the idea of Pakistan and awakened the nation through his nationalistic poetry, was born on November 9, 1877, in Sialkot. He received his education at Government College Lahore and later pursued higher studies in Britain and Germany.
Through his poetry, deeply rooted in national consciousness, Iqbal inspired the Muslim Ummah and encouraged it to embrace self-confidence and determination. His philosophical thoughts and literary contributions continue to influence people across the world.
His famous poetry collections, including Bang-e-Dra, Bal-e-Jibril and Zarb-e-Kaleem, continue to inspire hope, ambition and determination among young people. The nation continues to remember its great benefactor, while visitors gather at his mausoleum to pay tribute to his services.
President Pays Tribute to Allama Iqbal
President Asif Ali Zardari, in his message on Iqbal Day, paid tribute to Allama Muhammad Iqbal and said his poetry instilled in the Muslims of the subcontinent the confidence and strength to determine their own future.
The president said Iqbal provided intellectual guidance to the aspirations of the Muslims of the subcontinent. He added that Iqbal’s poetry conveyed a message of freedom and the struggle for a dignified life.
He further stated that Iqbal’s poetry raised a voice against exploitation and made underprivileged people aware of their rights and status. His verses also highlighted the dignity, respect and importance of hardworking individuals.
Ceremonial Guard-Changing Ceremony at Iqbal’s Mausoleum
A dignified guard-changing ceremony was held at the mausoleum of Allama Iqbal in Lahore. Pakistan Navy Station Commander Lahore, Commodore Misbah-ul-Amin, attended the ceremony as the chief guest.
Commodore Misbah-ul-Amin laid a floral wreath at the mausoleum and offered Fateha. He also inspected contingents of the Pakistan Rangers and Pakistan Navy participating in the ceremony.
A smartly turned-out Pakistan Navy contingent subsequently assumed ceremonial guard duties at the mausoleum of Allama Muhammad Iqbal.
